Receivers coach Kelsey Pope had a clear message for any prospects that are considering Tennessee.
When asked if UT’s offense was receiver friendly, Pope said, “I think it’s absolutely that. It’s a message to the younger guys in high school when you’re looking for an offense to really be prolific in.”
Pope’s claim isn’t baseless. The Vols changed dramatically last season under first-year head coach Josh Heupel. Under Heupel, Velus Jones Jr. and Cedric Tillman became star players. Most around the SEC didn’t even know who the duo was at this time last season.
“You see Ced and Velus and what they did before we got here,” Pope said. “You see what they did when we got here. It’s like a movie and it’s real.”
Things aren’t going to change anytime soon based on Pope’s comments. He said he’s had plenty of receivers step up in preseason camp.
“That’s been a long list,” Pope said. “We’ve been fortunate.”
Let’s start with Jalin Hyatt, who admittedly didn’t play at his best last season. Now, Hyatt has added 10 pounds and has a different attitude than he did last year.
“You see him respond the right way,” Pope said. “You see him coach guys up when he’s not in.”
Pope also had some strong praise for Squirrell White, who is quickly becoming a fan favorite. Pope said the freshman has been “phenomenal” in his short time at UT. The key for White is to do what he does best, which is utilize his speed and quickness.
“Squirrell is not the world’s strongest man,” Pope said. “He probably never will be. He knows that. He definitely could be the world’s fastest man, so you play within your wheelhouse.”
Pope also offered his thoughts on Bru McCoy. The transfer from Southern California hasn’t been cleared to play this season. However, he has been able to practice.
“Bru has been a pleasant surprise,” Pope said. “For a guy that hadn’t played in a season, he’s obviously had to build stamina back up, but when you talk about just a physical specimen…that guy has a lot of things you can’t coach.”
Pope said freshman Chas Nimrod has been a “pleasant surprise” during camp. When asked about Ramel Keyton, Pope said the senior needs to continue to focus on being consistent, especially on deep throws downfield. However, that’s all nit picking. Pope has clearly been pleased with his group midway through preseason camp.
Tennessee will hold a scrimmage on Sunday after holding its first of the preseason on Tuesday.
“For the most part, I felt like we were really consistent with our tempo with our operation,” Pope said. “It was a solid day.”
